Archbishop of Kisumu Maurice Muhatia Makumba has urged members of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal to maintain their Catholic identity and follow the teachings, traditions and rules of the Catholic Church.
Speaking during Holy Mass at St Teresa’s Cathedral, Kibuye, on Monday, September 21, Archbishop Muhatia said the Catholic Charismatic Renewal is an approved and authorised movement in the Archdiocese of Kisumu.
He noted that the movement has a chaplain in the archdiocese to provide spiritual guidance to its members.
“Don’t lose your Catholic identity. That is why you are called Catholic Charismatic Renewal,” Archbishop Muhatia said.
The Archbishop also spoke about prayer sessions involving shouting, falling and extensive bodily movements.
He advised members to conduct such activities outside the church building, especially in churches where the Blessed Sacrament is permanently reserved.
He said halls or tents could be used for such prayer sessions while allowing the church building to maintain an atmosphere suitable for Eucharistic worship.
Archbishop Muhatia also stressed that the celebration of Holy Mass must follow the rules and guidelines set out in the Roman Missal.
“There is no charismatic Mass or legionary Mass, or a CWA Mass or CMA Mass. A Mass belongs to Christ,” he said.
He urged Catholics to observe the appropriate postures during Mass, including standing, sitting and kneeling at the required moments.
He also cautioned against unnecessary movements that could distract other worshippers and affect their participation in the celebration of the Eucharist.
Archbishop Muhatia clarified that his remarks were not meant to oppose the Catholic Charismatic Renewal.
He said he had personally approved and authorised the movement in the Archdiocese of Kisumu and appointed a chaplain to accompany its members.
“I’m not saying I am against the Catholic Charismatic Renewal; I have approved it. I have authorised it. I have given you a chaplain,” he said.
The Archbishop urged members to continue with their activities while maintaining their Catholic identity and respecting the Church’s norms, particularly during the celebration of the sacraments.
